Caring for Someone with MS

Learning about MS will help you improve as a caregiver.

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Knowing what toexpect from MS is much better than fearing the worst. The more you know, the better you can communicate withdoctors and other healthcare professionals.

Many symptoms of MS aren't visible, and they are constantly changing.

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This is why nonverbal clues can be the most important form of communication. Learning how to manage MS will help you and the person with MS enjoy a healthy and balanced relationship and get the most out of your family life.

It's important to share your feelings regularly. Most caregivers acknowledge that MS adds emotional, physical, and financial stress to even the most stable relationships.

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Giving voice to feelings helps reduce stress and helps cement emotional closeness that is essential when it comes to long-term MS care.

With MS fatigue being one of the most common but invisible symptoms, explaining it to caregivers is not always a straightforward task.

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Try and understand that it differs from regular tiredness and a good night's rest or a nap won't solve this long-term issue. Patience and understanding are key to helping manage fatigue experienced by people with MS.

Don't be scared to accept help. If you're spending your days caring for a loved one, then it's easy to feel overwhelmed.

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Learn to accept help when it's offered - even the smallest break or excursion can do wonders for your mental health. Delegate specific tasks to do to lighten your load.

Connecting with others via support groups can help lighten your mental burden, and allow for exchange of emotional support, information, and tips on caregiving with others.

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It's important to realise that you're not alone in this care journey and others will have plenty of valuable insights to share.